In the last wrap-up of the week from Squirrel News, we delve into a unique educational approach fostering self-governance in Thailand’s schoolchildren, the launch of free mental health apps for children in California, and how a herd of 170 bison might hold the key to storing CO2 emissions equivalent to thousands of vehicles.
The school run by kids: letting children lead the way in self-governance
What sets the Mechai Pattana School in Thailand apart is its unconventional methodology. From procurement of kitchen supplies to maintaining discipline among peers, and even participating in staff recruitment, the students bear the responsibility of running the school.
Free mental health apps offer round-the-clock support in California
Released by the California Department of Health Care Services, Soluna caters to adolescents and young adults aged 13 to 25, whilst BrightLife Kids targets young children and their parents.
Despite a 90% decline in crime over 3 decades, public perception skews reality
A recent survey reveals that 78% of individuals in England and Wales believe that crime rates have surged in recent years. However, empirical data on actual crime trends paints a very different picture, showcasing a strong decline instead.
A tiny credit union is fuelling Brooklyn’s economic engine
Despite its modest size with just around $50 million in assets, by extending crucial lending support to Black and Brown small business proprietors, the coop has outpaced banking giants like Citi, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America combined in providing SBA loans to Brooklyn-based ventures.
US libraries address parental study hurdles with family workstation cubicles
For parents juggling study needs with childcare responsibilities, navigating library resources can be daunting. These workstations offer a dedicated space where parents can focus on tasks while their little ones engage in a built-in play area adjacent to their workspace.
10 innovative mental health projects benefitting individuals in the UK
Facing mental health hurdles is a universal experience, and support manifests in a huge number of different forms. A growing movement in Britain are utilising video games, music, gardening, and more to help individuals in need.
Swapping lawns for microfarms in LA’s food deserts
Beverly Lofton’s home in south Los Angeles used to have a water-guzzling grass lawn. Today, it’s a verdant microfarm that uses solar power and recycled water to grow carrots, beets, potatoes and more, with the bounty distributed to her neighbours.
Meet the woman behind Edinburgh’s volunteer street stitchers
Mary Morton wanders the streets and parks of Edinburgh offering to repair the clothes of passers-by – for free. At 67 years old, she restores, alters, and shares knowledge on rejuvenating worn-out attire, cultivating a network of volunteer street tailors scattered throughout the city.
